Shin Splints

A shin splint is pain in the shin muscles caused by strenuous exercise, usually after a period of relative inactivity. There are four kinds of shin splints: posterior tibial shin splints, tibial periostitis, anterior compartment syndrome, and stress fractures. Posterior tibial shin splints cause pain in the front portion of the leg. This injury accounts for about 75 percent of all shin splints among athletes. In tibial periostitis, the bone itself is tender. Anterior compartment syndrome affects the outer side of the front of the leg. Stress fractures cause a sharp pain with tenderness one to two inches (2.5 to 5 centimeters) below the knee. Stress fractures can occur in other parts of the body as well.

Supplements and herbs

• Andiroba Oil. Massage a few drops over area of fracture.
  Anti-inflammatory.
• Arnica Cream. Apply to affected area 1-2 times daily.
  Prevents the release of pain-causing hormones.
  Do not apply arnica to broken skin or to an open wound, and do not take internally. If you develop a rash, discontinue use. Do not use arnica if you are pregnant.

What else you can do

• For both kinds of tibial shin splints, avoid running for two to four weeks. Apply ice to the affected area twenty minutes twice a day for a week.
• For anterior compartment syndrome, do not stop exercising completely, but do be sure to warm up and cool down properly, and to reduce the miles you run if necessary. The pain usually subsides as the muscles become accustomed to vigorous exercise. If pain continues, see a physician.
• For stress fractures, rest the area for at least one month. If necessary, use crutches for walking.